A pair of fleet-footed friends are taking on the New York marathon in a show of support for a pal recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

Ruth Hampton, 45, from Hartington Road, Chiswick, and Mary Robertson, 47, of Grove Road, Brentford, are jetting off to the Big Apple in November to pound the Manhattan sidewalks and raise money for Breast Cancer Campaign.

Ruth, and artist and mum-of-three, said: "I'm taking on this enormous challenge because I want to show my friend how much I support her through this devastating illness."

The New York Marathon takes place on Sunday, November 2, and the route takes runners on a route around the island before ending up in Central Park.

"Raising money for money for campaign means that I will be contributing to their mission of finding a cure for breast cancer, so it's a cause very close to my heart," said Ruth, who asked that her friend remain anonymous.

Breast Cancer Campaign is looking for more runners willing to take part in the run and raise money for the worthwhile charity.